MAPPIG Wellness Education Centre wec.uwo.ca Heidi ...

Wow — what a year! The intensity and speed of time passing slows for no one. With another wonderful year under our collective belt, we’ve seen the passage of time represented in so many ways.

You’ll see a couple of changes in this year’s report. Our portfolio has grown to include Sports and Recreation, bringing a whole new pool of knowledge to our portfolio. We also modified our structure, making Indigenous Services (IS) an independent unit. Accordingly, we developed a Strategic Plan for IS through robust consultation, focus groups, presentations and feedback.

Additionally, we developed and staffed the Sexual Violence Prevention Education Coordinator position. Students who have been subjected to sexual violence will be able to reach out to the coordinator who will listen to them, explain their reporting options, and connect them to resources within the University and the community.

Finally, we saw the Wellness Education Centre (WEC) concept come to fruition in response to the need for centralized and visible wellness resources on campus.

At Western, we pride ourselves on providing the best student experience in Canada, and we have our incredible staff to thank for bringing their passion, warmth and expertise to the programs and services that we deliver. We are committed to supporting our students’ success and wellbeing so they can perform at their highest level both inside and outside the classroom.

We want our students to reach their full potential, and our portfolio’s programs and services reflect just that. I look forward to another year of enhancing our portfolio through collaboration, consultation and dedication to our purpose. But for now, please join me in celebrating our achievements from the 2015-16 academic year...

Jana LukerAssociate Vice-President, Student Experience

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

ANNUAL REPORT

2015-2016MAPPING STUDENT SUCCESS

Jana Luker at O-Week 2015 (Photo courtesy of the USC)

STUDENT EXPERIENCE

WHAT:

WHY: The Western Student Experience

inspires all learners to ignite extraordinary change in the world.

Excellence

Col

labo

rati

on

Inclusivity

Support the whole learner’s growth through programs, services and

experiences that foster well-being, build connections and develop skills.

Com

passion Respect

Student Success Centre

Entrepreneurship (Propel)Sports

and Recrea

tion

Serv

ices

Student Development C

entre

Indigenous ServicesWellness Initiatives

O�

ce o

f the

AV

P St

uden

t Exp

erie

nce Services for Students w

ith Disabilities

Learning Skills Services

Writing Support C

entre

Psychological Services

Volunteers in Progress

Wholistic Learning SpaceCommunity Relationships

Student Success Pathways

Academic & Culturally-Relevant

Programming & Supports

Heidi Balsillie

Fairmount Foundation

Health & Wellness Lecture Series

Wellness Education Centre

Sexual Violence Prevention

Peer Support Centre

Cod

e of

Stu

dent

Con

duct

Rese

arch

& A

sses

smen

tAd

min

istr

atio

n &

Spe

cial

Pro

ject

sH

uman

Res

ourc

es &

Fin

ance

Com

mun

icat

ions

, Web

& IT

Don

or R

elat

ions

Retail Opportunities

Summ

er Incubator

Seed Funding

Education & Training

Mentorship

Coworking Space

Transition, Leadership & EnrichmentCareer Counselling

Experiential Learning

Employer Relations

Wellness, Fitness

, Stre

ngth

& C

ondi

tioni

ng

Leadership &

Inst

ruct

iona

l Pro

gram

s

Marketing, C

omm

unicatio

ns &

Eve

nts

Intramura

ls & C

lubs

Business O

peratio

ns &

Fac

ilitie

s

Inter-Unive

rsity

Ath

letic

s

OutcomesƆƆ Students have a greater understanding of the

connection between wellness and academic achievement

ƆƆ Students develop skills and employ strategies to enhance their wellness

ƆƆ Students know about supports on campus that foster wellness and how to access them

ƆƆ Students understand factors that contribute to their wellness

ƆƆ Students have streamlined access to mental and physical health services on campus

Programs and Services

Individual student consultations and drop-ins

Mental health awareness and education initiatives

10 interactive health promotion projects created by Wellness Peer Educators

Nutrition education and an independent Dietitian service

Group programming

Faculty, staff and student workshops, presentations and training sessions

Wellness event space available for booking

Consultations with campus and community partners


Survivor support, accommodations, referrals and advocacy

Educational presentations and workshops

InitiativesƆƆ Provided interviews to multiple media outlets promoting the

WEC and mental health and wellness initiatives at Western

ƆƆ Connected with a range of Western faculty and staff to raise awareness of the WEC and support services available to students

ƆƆ Collaborated with the English and Sociology departments, and faculties of Engineering, Law, Social Science, Health Sciences, Ivey Business School and others to provide workshops and presentations for faculty and students on supporting student mental health and wellness

ƆƆ Met and worked with Undergraduate Associate Deans, Western Academic Counsellors, SAO Leaders, Sophs and other groups to enhance mental health and wellness supports and training

ƆƆ Created training workshops for residence leaders and staff at Brescia, King’s and Main campuses on mental health support

OutcomesƆƆ A Western-centric program that conforms wherever

possible to the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s guidelines for best practices in peer support

ƆƆ Act as a provider of formalized peer support for both individuals and groups

ƆƆ Foster an environment that is welcoming and safe for individuals of all identities and lived experiences

ƆƆ Provide services in a way that celebrates diversity in all its forms

InitiativesƆƆ The Peer Support Network collaborated with off-campus

partners such as Connect for Mental Health, Regional HIV/AIDS Connection, Hope’s Garden, and St. John’s Ambulance to increase resources for students

ƆƆ Peer Support Centre volunteers and coordinators collaborated to host inclusive events for students including therapy dogs, care package programming and open house days

ƆƆ Implemented assessment measures to track volunteer participation rates and foot traffic (1,200 hours logged)

ƆƆ Centre moved to a larger, bright new space on the second level of the UCC to accommodate more visitors with an 830% increase in documented visits

ƆƆ Volunteers provided support services to various special events on campus (e.g. Jack Summit and Western: Let’s Talk with Kevin Breel)

InitiativesƆƆ Hosted a forum in March 2016 in collaboration

with campus partners and members of the Sexual Violence Prevention Education Committee that looked at engaging men in advocacy for sexual violence prevention

ƆƆ Provided training with administrative and academic leaders on responding to disclosures of sexual violence

ƆƆ Piloted the Winter 2016 Upstander program with seven varsity athletic teams

ƆƆ Ongoing work on the Ontario Women’s Directorate grant project

Wellness Education Centre wec.uwo.ca | Room 76 UCC

Peer Support Centre Sexual Violence Prevention Education

Western’s Wellness Education Centre (WEC) is a new initiative that was launched in 2016, in collaboration with Student Health Services, and with support from the USC and SOGS. The WEC offers a safe and comfortable environment that allows students to familiarize themselves with the variety of wellness resources that are available at Western and in the London community. Between January-April 2016, 274 students visited the WEC which was staffed by a full-time Wellness Education Coordinator and a team of nine staff and volunteers.

With a “no wrong door” policy, the WEC strives to provide students with a supportive and personalized service to help students find the resources that best suit their needs. This central initiative aims to provide students with resources and services that cover all aspects of wellness and well-being — mental, physical, academic, career, financial and social.

The Peer Support Centre is a University Students’ Council (USC) initative supported by the Student Experience portfolio, and uses a “Listen, Affirm, Refer” framework for action to offer students a safe environment where peers will listen and ensure students feel heard free of judgment, have their lived experiences reaffirmed, and are given referrals to services for ongoing support when necessary.

The Sexual Violence Prevention Education Coordinator (SVPEC), a new role created in February 2016, is a resource for all Western students who have been subjected to sexual violence as well as those individuals supporting survivors of sexual violence. The SVPEC provides a survivor-centric approach that assists survivors in navigating campus and community supports, the reporting process, and the various options available to them. The SVPEC works collaboratively with several stakeholders to design and deliver educational programming for the Western community.

STUDENT WELLNESS INITIATIVES

Made possible by the generosity of Heidi Balsillie and Fairmount Foundation, the Wellness Series was established so that Student Experience can continue to bring engaging speakers to campus who will speak about health and wellness in a transparent manner. In the 2015-2016 school year, the University Students’ Council and the Society of Graduate Students assisted Student Experience and the Communications and Publications team with the implementation of the events.

$404,400

Grant proposals submitted

3

Total value of grants funded

Workshops delivered

15

205Faculty and sta� attendees at workshops and presentations

572Student attendees at workshops

274Client intake formscompleted

Interactive health promotion projects

10

653Student sta� hours

9Student sta� / volunteers

“This training exceeded my expectations. I thought they did a really great job making the training interactive and interesting. Definitely helpful.”

— Student Testimonial

1,200

Volunteer hours logged

Student visits in the

fall term

235

Client intake forms completed

93

uwo.ca/sexualviolence westernusc.ca/peersupport

Heidi Balsillie Fairmount Foundation Health and Wellness Lecture Series

“When I saw the event [for Clara Hughes], I immediately registered and was so excited. I felt so engaged and connected to the speaker. It really helped me feel more comfortable talking about mental health, and being able to reach out for help. It made me realize that I am not the only one experiencing these things, and I am not crazy. This wellness speaker has really made a positive impact on me.”


820

Wellness events:Kevin Breel, Art with

Impact, Clara Hughes

3

Students, sta� andfaculty registered


Confidential peer-to-peer support with empathetic USC staff and volunteers

Peer-centered, non-threatening and comfortable space for students to access information and resources, converse, de-stress or seek support

Student-driven group programs that address a myriad of topics, including LGBTQ2+, eating disorders and positive mental health

Professional, comprehensive training and year-long support for volunteers provided by Student Development Centre (SDC) psychotherapists.Volunteers received Safetalk suicide awareness training

InitiativesƆƆ February 2016: Clara Hughes “Open Heart, Open Mind”

keynote presentation, lunch, and Q&A

ƆƆ October 2015: Kevin Breel “Western: Let’s Talk”

ƆƆ Health and Wellness Resource Fairs

OutcomesƆƆ Increased awareness about mental health and wellness among

campus community

ƆƆ Students develop skills and strategies to enhance their wellness

ƆƆ Increased knowledge of supports on campus to foster student wellness

ƆƆ Students understand factors that contribute to their wellness

ƆƆ Increased positive attitudes among students around mental health and wellness

uu Reduced stigma regarding mental health on campus

uu Students engage in open dialogue regarding mental health issues on campus

OFFICE OF THE AVPAssociate Vice-President, Student Experience: Jana Luker se.uwo.ca | Room 2120 WSSB

OutcomesƆƆ Students develop leadership skills through

experiences, mentoring and formal training

ƆƆ Students acquire and apply a range of social, emotional, academic and workplace-relevant transferable skills

ƆƆ Students engage in experiential learning opportunities through co-curricular engagement, work integrated learning, entrepreneurship, and community engaged learning that prepare them for future professional and academic endeavors

ƆƆ Students have access to a more inclusive campus community that promotes cultural awareness and competencies among students, Indigenizes the institution and removes barriers to student learning

ƆƆ Students achieve well-being through active participation in a range of programs and services that promote healthy behaviours and support students in responding to challenges that they experience

ƆƆ Students become community-engaged learners by actively building connections with members of the Western, local and global communities

Student Experience is a new portfolio, established by the Provost in April 2014, with a mandate to support the whole learner’s growth through programs, services, and experiences that foster well-being, build connections, and develop skills. Through our values and commitment to collaboration, excellence, compassion, respect, and inclusivity, the Western Student Experience inspires all learners to ignite extraordinary change in the world.


Human Resources Recruitment and selection, payroll, mentoring program, developing and motivating a team to support student service excellence

Finance Delivering effective and efficient financial planning and systems, increased oversight of contracts, donor agreements, and legal documents

Communications and Publications social media, print materials, external surveys, VISIX, annual report, brochures, posters, newsletters, communications plans, major documents, events

Web and IT Services Technology support services, website development, system development

Operations

Research and Assessment

Code of Student Conduct

Strategic PlanningƆƆ Three strategic plans are currently under

development within Student Experience:

uu Student Experience Strategic Plan

uu Western’s Indigenous Strategic Plan

uu Orientation Strategic Plan

Human ResourcesƆƆ Introduced Part-Time Recruitment

System through Working at Western

ƆƆ Streamlined Request for Hire process and initiated RFH project with WEB/IT team

ƆƆ Completed full recruitment cycle for 25 full-time vacancies (including key roles such as the Wellness Coordinator and Sexual Violence Prevention Education Coordinator)

ƆƆ Provided support to over 500 full-time, part-time, and student employees

ƆƆ Promoted the use of a rigorous recruitment process across all departments

ƆƆ Processed and communicated UWOSA and PMA annual salary increases

Research and AssessmentƆƆ Development and implementation of 48 assessment

projects, collecting data from over 3,200 students and campus stakeholders

ƆƆ Development, implementation and ongoing support for six formal research studies through which data from over 2,669 students has been collected, including:

uu Western’s First Year Experience Study

uu Indigenous Student Experience Survey

uu Career Programs and Services including : Multiple Mini-Interview Preparation Program, Group Career Counselling for International Students

Code of Student Conductwww.uwo.ca/univsec/pdf/board/code.pdf

ƆƆ Working closely with the AVP Student Experience, University Legal Counsel and Campus Community Police Service to ensure that all matters involving the Code are handled according to the established procedures for record-keeping, communication and follow-up

ƆƆ Submitting the annual Board Report summarizing actions taken under the terms of the Code of Student Conduct since the Code was submitted in November 2015

ƆƆ 26 incidents resulting in 39 formal Code proceedings from May 1, 2015 to April 31, 2016 (not including incidents handled informally outside the scope of the Code)

ƆƆ Majority of cases were related to sexual violence, theft, damage to University property, and domestic violence/assault

ƆƆ Shifted focus to educational sanctions in order to ensure behavioural change in students and provide an opportunity to educate themselves and others

Leadership & Instructional Programs

Intramurals & Clubs

Wellness, Fitness,Strength &

Conditioning

Inter-UniversityAthletics

Marketing, Communications

& Events

Business Operations& Facilities

Transition,Leadership &Enrichment

CareerCounselling

ExperientialLearning

EmployerRelations

LearningSkills Services

PsychologicalServices

PeerSupport

WellnessEducation Centre

Sexual ViolencePrevention Education

Wellness Speaker Series

WritingSupport Centre

Services for Students

with Disabilities

Volunteers InProgress

StudentExperience

WellnessStudent Success Centre

IndigenousServices

Judicial A�airs

Propel Entrepreneurship

Centre

Sports &Recreation

StudentDevelopment Centre

4. Action 3. Reflection

&

Communicat

ion

Outcomes Based

Assessment Cycle

1. Plan

ning2. Implementation

4 $591,000Major grant projects successfully funded Collective value

RESEARCH

5,869Students provided

data

Research studies

Assessment projects

6

48

Meetings, town halls and focus groups Participants

131

1,080

OperationsƆƆ Met weekly with the University Students’ Council

(USC) to ensure that the diverse needs of Western undergraduate students are met

ƆƆ Met frequently with the Society of Graduate Students to ensure that the diverse needs of Western graduate students are met

ƆƆ Coordinated and approved student sponsorships for independent experiential initiatives

ƆƆ AVP Student Experience chaired the Student Mental Health and Wellness Advisory Committee and hired a Mental Health Strategist to work on the coordination of a strategic plan for Western on Mental Health and Wellness

ƆƆ Continued collaboration with Student Health Services and USC on the wellness website and University wellness initiatives

ƆƆ Coordinated with Alumni Relations around continued donor development

ƆƆ Strategic restructuring resulting in the addition of Sports and Recreation Services to the Student Experience portfolio

ƆƆ Indigenous Services was elevated to an independent unit reporting directly to the AVP Student Experience

ƆƆ Coordinated various special projects and events

Web/ITƆƆ Request for Hire Phase I project

ƆƆ SE Attendance Management Phase I project - ongoing

ƆƆ New CALM release

ƆƆ Virtual Timetabler Phase I for CALM

ƆƆ SWAU (School within a University) project

ƆƆ Virtual Fair Phase I

ƆƆ SE Key Performance Indicators (KPI) Reporting Tool developed

ƆƆ SSD Alternate Text Functionality

Communications and Publicationspublications.uwo.ca

ƆƆ Event planning: invitations, ticketing, photography, and support day-of, including The Heidi Balsillie Fairmount Foundation Health & Wellness Lecture Series and “Art with Impact” collaboration with University Students’ Council (USC)

ƆƆ Assisted opening the Wellness Education Centre, from ordering furniture and signage to creating marketing materials

ƆƆ Created promotional work and campaign materials for new Peer Support, including a 3D printing of the logo

ƆƆ In partnership with The Student Success Centre, created a comprehensive year-at-a-glance communications plan, streamlining processes for staff requests

ƆƆ Began managing the Twitter channel for Wellness Western, working with Student Health Services and the USC

ƆƆ Continued social media oversight and guidance

ƆƆ Assisted producing the Mental Health and Wellness Resource Guide

ƆƆ Created signage and marketing materials for print and online, including newsletters, brochures, posters

ƆƆ Assisted in launching Student Experience website

ƆƆ Coordinated learning and development opportunities for staff, including the First Aid training and Building Emergency Team lunch and learn

FinanceƆƆ Oversight of a budget comprised of five

areas (Student Experience including wellness initiatives, The Student Success Centre, Student Development Centre, Sports and Recreation Services, Indigenous Services) totaling over $22,500,000

ƆƆ Brought in $591,000 in grant funding in 2015-16 through four major grant application projects

uu Ontario Women’s Directorate: Building an Upstander Culture to Prevent Sexual Violence at Ontario Postsecondary Institutions

uu Received support from Ontario Online Initiatives in support of three major projects to create online modules and resources for students, including: Career Fundamentals for University Students, Learning Skills Fundamentals for University Students and Foundations of Community Engaged Learning

Student Experience Organization

962 48.8%

1,700,000

4,738 4,817

2,520

Growth in followers

Potential Reach

@wellnessWestern Twitter followers

Link clicks

Retweets

@westernuWSS Twitter followers

ƆƆ The campus community and key stakeholders were consulted in the development of these plans throughout 131 meetings, townhalls and/or focus groups involving 1,080 participants

STUDENT EXPERIENCE

Experiential Learning Career CounsellingThe Experiential Learning team collaborates across campus to increase students’ opportunities for a wide range of hands-on learning activities, including Work Integrated Learning (WIL), Community Engaged Learning (CEL) and global experience. In 2015-16, we provided over 3,000 undergraduate and graduate students with opportunities to build transferable skills through experiential learning programs, connecting them with over 400 community and industry partners.


Alternative Spring Break (ASB)

Community Engaged Learning (CEL) courses

Engage Western

Experiential Learning Central

Faculty Development Workshops

Faculty-Led Study Abroad courses

hirewesternu Student-Facing Campaign

Job Shadow Program

Long-term Internships (8, 12 and 16 months)

Social Science Summer Internship Program

Volunteer Fair

Western Serves - Day of Service & Network

Western’s Co-Curricular Record (WCCR)

InitiativesƆƆ Introduced 11 new CEL courses,

including the first interdisciplinary CEL courses

ƆƆ Awarded $75,000 from the Ontario Online Initiative to develop three modules for CEL students

ƆƆ Job Shadow program was extended to include students from any Faculty (previously only available to Social Science and Arts & Humanities)

ƆƆ Designed a comprehensive ASB workbook to help students reflect on their experiences

ƆƆ Hosted an event for employers to highlight the various opportunities for funding to hire WIL students

ƆƆ Introduced a London-based service experience for all ASB participants called ASB Serves with 14 partner organizations

OutcomesƆƆ Students develop transferable

skills that will prepare them for successful entry into the workforce post-graduation

ƆƆ Students enhance their sense of civic engagement and social responsibility by participating in community work, both locally and internationally

ƆƆ Community and industry partners are able to access Western talent to contribute in meaningful ways to their organizations

ƆƆ Students can access a diverse range of outside of the classroom opportunities

The Career Counselling team is committed to providing programs and services which support students in finding meaningful employment that draws from their educational background and experiences at Western and beyond. With a growing number of university graduates across the country and a competitive job market, it is more important than ever to prepare Western students for success when entering into the new world of work.


Career counselling to help students link their academic interests to the world of work

Western’s Employment Resource Centre drop-in and e-advising service for résumé, cover letter and CV review, plus LinkedIn and Magnet profile feedback

Group counselling for international students

Clinical supervision of MA Counselling Psychology interns

Conferences, faculty-based events, specialized programming, and career workshops

Biology Graduate Student Career Series

Career curriculum delivered to Anatomy and Cell Biology Professionalism course students


Individual assessment, counselling, and referral

New drop-in program for final exam period stress

Comprehensive group program

Laura Evans Psycho-Educational Lecture Series

USC Peer Support Centre selection, training, program development, and supervision (see Wellness Initiatives for more details)

Internship Training Centre for Clinical Psychology, School of Social Work, and Faculty of Education

Residency program for pre-ddoctoral Clinical Psychology residents

Provided 8,675 hours of direct clinical service including crisis intervention, individual and group appointments, lectures, consultations, supervision and training

InitiativesƆƆ Eliminated wait-list for Psychological Services through

pilot project for Single Session Programming

ƆƆ Presented with Student Experience Innovation Award for Single Session walk-in program

ƆƆ Maintained position as largest university internship program in Canada

ƆƆ Introduced new Soph support program during O-Week

ƆƆ Provided 29 presentations to 428 participants in the Laura Evans Psycho-Educational Lecture Series

ƆƆ Offered 24 multi-week group sessions to 897 participants

OutcomesƆƆ Students are supported through services, tools, and resources to

improve mental health

ƆƆ Faculty, staff, and students are more aware of student mental health issues

ƆƆ Student leaders are empowered with the knowledge and skills they need to assist peers

ƆƆ Practicum students, interns, and residents build professional skills and complete Academic Accreditation requirements

ƆƆ Students, including interns and residents, build personal and emotional skills

Psychological Services Services for Students with DisabilitiesServices for Students with Disabilities (SSD) plays a central role in Western’s efforts to ensure that its academic programs are accessible. SSD provides services for students who have a wide variety of disabilities that may include: impairments to vision, hearing or mobility, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, acquired brain injuries, chronic illnesses or pain, and mental health conditions.

InitiativesƆƆ Participated in a University-wide review of policies

and procedures regarding accommodation for students with mental health disabilities

ƆƆ Implemented a new online process for students to request alternate format text and to collect digital versions of textbooks once available

ƆƆ Purchased a site license for Kurzweil (text to speech software) to make available to all students with print disabilities at no cost (previously a personal expense of over $2,000)

OutcomesƆƆ Students with disabilities face fewer barriers while navigating a

challenging learning environment

ƆƆ Students have an understanding of the nature of their disabilities and their implications in academic and non-academic settings, and develop skills to help them achieve success in university

ƆƆ The broader University community is more aware of accessibility issues and students’ needs

ƆƆ Students have a fair opportunity to engage in their studies with dignity and autonomy

ƆƆ Western’s courses, programs, services, and processes are more accessible and compliant with human rights legislation

ƆƆ Increased compliance with accessibility laws and regulations across campus by adhering to the Ontario Human Rights Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, and the University’s Senate policy entitled Academic Accommodation for Students with Disabilities


Academic accommodation and related services

Alternative format textbooks

Accessible campus transportation

Sign-language interpreters, real-time captioning, and note-takers for students

Learning Strategist

Assistive Technologist

Psychoeducational assessments

Bursary for Students with Disabilities

Summer transition program for students with Learning Disabilities

Learning Skills Services “I liked having someone to express my struggles to. Working with a counsellor on my learning skills helped me feel less alone in the challenges I faced.”


“My time management skills have definitely improved, but overall the most important thing that I’ve learned is that I can succeed! Thank you for helping me to be able to realize this.”


InitiativesƆƆ Increased collaboration with the Department

of Housing and Ancillary Services to provide residence staff training

ƆƆ Received an e-campus Ontario grant to create online learning modules

ƆƆ Developed specialized workshops for students taking first and second year physics courses

ƆƆ 18 peer assistants and 11 mentors provided over 1,130 hours of service helping Western’s students learn more effectively

ƆƆ Increased student contacts with graduate students, particularly in individual appointments


Individual counselling provides confidential help to develop learning strategies and strengthen academic skills

SDC’s Learning Help Centre offers free and immediate academic support in a welcoming drop-in space

Learning Skills Presentation Series on key learning skills topics throughout the year

Online resources where students can connect to Learning Skills Services and get advice from peers anytime, anywhere

Academic success program for varsity athletes

Learning Skills Services provides information and support to help Western students achieve academic success. Services are available to all undergraduate and graduate students whether they are experiencing academic setbacks or want to maintain exceptional academic standing.

Western students continue to demonstrate great demand for Learning Skills Services with 17,585 student contacts during the 2015-16 academic year.

OutcomesƆƆ Students build self-awareness regarding their

strengths, which contribute to their learning

ƆƆ Students are equipped with skills that support academic success

ƆƆ Students build confidence in their ability to achieve academically

ƆƆ Students are equipped with tools and resources they can use to facilitate their learning

ƆƆ Students enhance leadership and helping skills, enabling them to effectively support their peers

Transition, Leadership and EnrichmentThe Transition, Leadership and Enrichment (TLE) team works with prospective students and current Western students to provide programs and services which support their transition into University. The programs foster engagement and a sense of community to help students thrive in their endeavors at Western and beyond.

InitiativesƆƆ Implemented a comprehensive hirewesternu

telephone outreach campaign with over 640 calls placed and 155 full consultations facilitated

ƆƆ 56.6% increase in WIL opportunities posted by employers compared to 2014-15

ƆƆ For the first time ever the hirewesternu Fair sold out with over 72 booths and sponsorships confirmed within the first week

ƆƆ Developed an employer information tracking system to document notes and interactions with employers through CareerCentral, to be used by campus partners this year

ƆƆ Exhibited hirewesternu at the HRPA Conference and Tradeshow in Toronto with over 226 meaningful conversations with new employer contacts


Individual consultations: counsellors help writers with their specific needs

Faculty support: WSC teachers guest lecture across campus

Seminars: students may attend one of the WSC’s many in-house writing seminars

GradWrite: seminars specifically designed for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars

Conferences: GradWrite Day is tailored to meet the unique needs faced by graduate students and postdoctoral scholars

Online support: writers may submit their papers electronically for review

Online resources: a series of PDFs on various academic writing subjects

Leadership training: the Peer Writing Counsellor Program helps groom undergraduate writing counsellors

GradLab: a workspace for grads equipped with writing resources and A/V equipment

Support groups: the Dissertation Writers’ Retreat offers a dedicated time and space for intensive dissertation writing

Summer Academic Writing Clinic: a three-day transition program for incoming first-year students

At Western’s Writing Support Centre (WSC), writing experts from diverse disciplines offer direction to novice writers looking to produce scholarly, discipline-specific texts, as well as to writers with more expertise seeking to hone their craft. Any given day, a WSC senior writing counsellor may consult individually with a first-year student writing their first bio lab report, a fourth-year MIT student writing a personal statement for graduate school, a Master’s student in education writing a thesis chapter, and many other types of students and scholars. The WSC counsellors work with the entire Western community to help improve both their academic and professional writing.

InitiativesƆƆ Assisted 15,126 students overall (including appointments and seminars)

ƆƆ Delivered more specialized outreach programs than any previous year to a diverse range of areas and faculties

ƆƆ Hosted the inaugural Dissertation Writing Retreat for fourth year PhD students, which will become a staple of WSC programming in the future

ƆƆ Delivered a series of talks in conjunction with the School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies for students seeking CIHR, SSHRC, and NSERC funding

OutcomesƆƆ Students enhance writing and communication skills

ƆƆ Students build confidence in their writing and communication skills

ƆƆ Students are equipped with tools, resources, and knowledge to effectively communicate through writing

ƆƆ Students increase critical analysis abilities to effectively communicate scholarly ideas

ƆƆ Students understand writing expectations at the university level and are equipped with the skills they need to navigate academic transitions

Writing Support Centre


Student2Business (S2B) networking conference

Online job postings, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) postings, on-campus interviews, and employer events through Career Central

Career, Job, and Graduate & Professional School Fairs

Careers & Coffee

Information sessions with employers and academic institutions

Employer hosted workshops

Interview suites

hirewesternu campaign joint initiative with Experiential Learning

Magnet: employment networking service for University graduate students and alumni

OutcomesƆƆ Students will have increased access to a diverse range

of employment opportunities including international, internship, and post-graduate full-time positions

ƆƆ Employers have increased awareness of the value of hiring Western talent

ƆƆ Employers know the processes and tools involved in hiring Western talent

The Employer Relations team’s vision is to create employer relationships that result in employment for every Western student. Their mission is to serve as a pathway and connector for employers

to students’ attributes and skills. Through the delivery of robust activities, employers are provided access to students to build their talent pipeline.

Employer Relations PROPEL ENTREPRENEURSHIPDirector: Ian Haase propel.uwo.ca | Room 2130 WSSB


On-campus co-working space

Seed Your Startup: annual pitch competition

PSI: summer incubator program

On-campus retail opportunities

Advocates and partners with student led initiatives (i.e. Hack Western)

Mentorship and business advice

Events and training

Propel continues to be the leading on-campus resource for entrepreneurs and individuals interested in learning more about entrepreneurship at Western University. This was another phenomenal year of growth and success for Propel startups. The department won a national award for its innovative Supporting Student Businesses partnership with Western Retail Services, provided support to over 220 startups, and reached over 8,000 community members through their entrepreneurship programming and events.

Propel’s mandate is threefold: 1) to increase exposure and awareness of entrepreneurship throughout campus; 2) to provide a safe environment for entrepreneurs to explore and test their ideas; 3) to foster local economic development by providing targeted support to high-potential startups.

Since its launch in 2014, the department has worked with over 300 startups, representing more than 575 Western students and alumni. In 2015-16, startups working with Propel generated more than $950,000 in sales and over $1,100,000 in investments.

OutcomesƆƆ Students, youth, faculty and staff are

exposed to entrepreneurship

ƆƆ Students develop transferable skills through hands-on experience

ƆƆ Western University is a hub for increased job creation through student and youth startups

ƆƆ Student entrepreneurs have access to more professional resources and services on campus

ƆƆ Student and youth startups have an increased survival rate

ƆƆ Western’s institutional climate supports and fosters entrepreneurship

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT CENTRE Director: Gail Hutchinsonsdc.uwo.ca | Room 4100 WSSB

OutcomesƆƆ Students develop an increased sense of belonging at Western

ƆƆ New students increase their knowledge of campus supports and resources

ƆƆ Students enhance their leadership skills

ƆƆ Students can access a diverse range of outside the classroom opportunities

“I can’t even begin to describe how productive and positive these sessions were for my life and academic standing. I have noticed a huge shift in my confidence as well as my study habits and diligence as a student. I truly feel that these counselling sessions have helped me and positively impacted my life.”


Psychological Services in the Student Development Centre (SDC) is home to highly-trained professional staff who employ targeted change-oriented mental health strategies to support student success. Counselling is available for both individuals and groups, and crisis services on assisting issues such as sexual violence, LGBTTIQQ2SA+, eating disorders and emotional or physical abuse.

InitiativesƆƆ Expanded LAMP 2.0 mentoring program for second-year students to all

faculties

ƆƆ Partnered with Sports and Recreation Services to create a Student Athlete Academic Mentoring Program (SAAMP) for new student athletes

ƆƆ Launched the First Year Experience Survey and received more than 650 responses

ƆƆ Hosted the Peer Support Community of Practice meeting for CACUSS with more than 30 peer support and student affairs professionals from across Ontario in attendance and used video conferencing to connectwith colleagues in British Columbia

ƆƆ Implemented changes for the Ready for University program for mature students

ƆƆ Implemented new academic orientation models for Engineering and Science transfer students in collaboration with Associate Deans and Academic Counselling Offices

Hours of Community Engagement

14,780

Community Engaged Learning (CEL)

Courses

29

1,673

CEL Community Partners162

Students in CEL Courses

236

115%Internship positions up by

positions in 2015/16

110positions

in 2010/11

OutcomesƆƆ Students increase their ability to engage in career

exploration, planning, and decision-making

ƆƆ Students develop a diverse range of transferable skills

ƆƆ Students enhance their ability to identify and articulate transferable skills developed through academic studies and outside the classroom experiences

88Students provided accessible campus

transportation

362Students worked with an Assistive

Technologist

1,852Students

16,023Accommodated exams

administered by Examination Services

and SSD for

212Students provided

with alternative format textbooks

1,583

5,000

17,585

New student contacts

Student contacts in total

1,651Hours of

individual counselling

1,391Student contacts at the Learning Help Centre

2,253Student contacts through Learning Skills presentations

$950,000

Investments

Sales

$1,100,000

Startup Community Participation 2015-2016

Propel Economic Indicators 2015-2016

8,240+

Students reachedthrough events

8Student club partnerships

4,350Students received

one-to-one counselling

3,617Counselling

hours

15,158Total students provided services

OutcomesƆƆ Western’s campus community is more aware and able

to work more effectively with Indigenous peoples and cultures

ƆƆ Indigenous students are connected to the campus community

ƆƆ Indigenous students see themselves reflected in the campus community

ƆƆ Indigenous students have increased connection with their personal and cultural identity

ƆƆ Western University has close ties with surrounding Indigenous communities

ƆƆ Indigenous students are supported through culturally responsive services

ƆƆ Indigenous students develop leadership skills


Indigenous student supports and Academic Transition Opportunities (ATO) program

Indigenous Services Centre and cultural supports (i.e. workshops, visiting Elders, ceremonies, etc.)

Indigenous liaison and admissions (O-Week programming, campus tours and welcome reception)

Indigenous work experience

Indigenous community outreach programs

Indigenous strategic planning, communications, data management, reporting and fundraising

INDIGENOUS SERVICESDirector: Brent Stonefish (Acting) indigenous.uwo.ca | Room 2100 WSSB

The Indigenous Services (IS) team provides key leadership in fulfilling Western’s strategic priority of “improving the accessibility and success in higher education for Indigenous peoples” (Global Strategic PLan, 2014). Our purpose is to inspire Indigenous students to realize their full potential through culturally responsible spaces, services and advocacy which work to encourage wholistic and strength-based approaches to learning.

InitiativesƆƆ Indigenous Strategic Plan

ƆƆ Indigenous Circle of Support program

ƆƆ Indigenous Awareness Week

ƆƆ Indigenous Food and Medicine Garden

ƆƆ Indigenous Visiting Elders

3,925 2,692

1841,730

3,728

Standard appointments

Summer Academic Orientation program guest participants

Students accessed online Summer Academic Orientation program sign-up system

ParticipantsLeadership Education Program (LEP) workshops

3,154Summer Academic Orientation Program student participants

1318

????

Telephone calls 640

hirewesternu website visits 26,742

LinkedIn impressions 504,169

In-person consultations 31 5,288

1,098Work

Integrated Learning

opportunities posted on

CareerCentral

Employment opportunities

posted on CareerCentral

hirewesternu Campaign

1318

????

Telephone calls 640

hirewesternu website visits 26,742

LinkedIn impressions 504,169

In-person consultations 31 5,288

1,098Work

Integrated Learning

opportunities posted on

CareerCentral

Employment opportunities

posted on CareerCentral


InitiativesƆƆ New volunteer positions were created in Psychological

Services and the Wellness Education Centre

ƆƆ Volunteers contributed over 16,763 hours of service

ƆƆ 51% increase in the number of volunteer positions in Student Development Centre and Western International over 2 years

ƆƆ 49% increase in the number of student volunteers over 2 years

OutcomesƆƆ Students develop transferable skills that will support

their successful entry into the workforce

ƆƆ Students enhance their sense of civic engagement and social responsibility

ƆƆ Student Development Centre and Western International have increased capacity to support Western students

ƆƆ International students are supported through their transition and adjustment to Western

ƆƆ Domestic and international students are equipped with the skills they need to become global leaders

Volunteers in Progress (VIP) is designed to complement students’ academic life by providing them with opportunities to develop skills and gain career-related work experience through volunteering in placements throughout the Student Development Centre, Western International, and the London community. The VIP program contributes to the fulfillment of Western’s Strategic Plan to teach transferable knowledge and leadership skills, educate and support development of the whole person, and promote experiential learning opportunities. In addition, the VIP program supports the Strategic Plan’s focus on community involvement, internationalization, and preparation of global-ready graduates.


Experiential learning based on volunteer experience

International learning opportunities

Team building events and socials

Volunteers in Progress

“I was involved with VIP for three years, which gave me ample opportunity to develop numerous skills. In particular, I was able to develop my cross-cultural communication skills. I also developed my time-management and organization skills as I had to balance the role with school and other commitments. These skills have undoubtedly helped me.”

— Melissa Neethu Govindaraju, Western Alumni

34%up

16,763Volunteer hours

312

106

Positions o�ered

International positions

Number of VIP Volunteers

167

SPORTS AND RECREATION Director: Therese Quigley westernmustangs.ca


Western Student Recreation Centre facilities including a 20,000 sq ft fitness centre, 50 metre pool, squash and racquetball courts, and 5 gymnasiums

Interuniversity Athletics including over 26 sports with male and female teams

Intramural sports teams and recreational and sports clubs

Leadership and instructional programs including aquatics and dance

Wellness, fitness, massage, personal training, strength conditioning and weight room

Marketing, communications and events

Over 400 student employment opportunities

InitiativesƆƆ Membership Services recorded

872,234 visits to the Western Student Recreation Centre

ƆƆ Interuniversity Athletics hosted 5 championships at Western

ƆƆ 142 annual events hosted by Interuniversity Athletics

ƆƆ 6 Provincial Championships won

ƆƆ 2 National Championships won

ƆƆ Ranked #1 in Canada for Student-Athlete Academic Achievement

Sports and Recreation Services encompasses both Intercollegiate Athletics and Campus Recreation. We offer a variety of competitive sport and recreational activities to deliver an outstanding student experience and strive to make Western #1 in Canada for a healthy campus.

1,592Students 5,315Hours of individual counselling and therapy 8,525Direct psychological service hours

1,771 Faculty, sta� and student participants70Presentations, workshops, training sessions and outreach539

2,760

9,0263,012

Counselling hours

Appointments

Student participants

Drop-in intake sessions

“As an off-campus first year student and a LAMP mentee, I had the honour of having amazing mentors who did an extraordinary job facilitating my transition to university life. I decided to give back to my Western community and follow the path of those amazing role models.”



SAGE: Programming for Mature and Transfer Students

Ready for University program

Out of Province Student Association

Leadership and Mentorship Program (LAMP) 1.0 and 2.0, and LAMP Leadership

Society for Off-Campus Students (SOCS)

School within a University (SWAU) and Orientation Program

Leadership Education Program (LEP) modules

Summer Academic Orientation (SAO), traditional student orientation, and guest orientation

Online Academic Orientation

Mature and transfer student orientation

Western Initiative for Scholarly Excellence (WISE) program and orientation

The Scholars’ Electives and Western Scholars programs

“I am really happy I could access all these services at Western and I thank Western and The Student Success Centre for giving me such a positive experience!”


STUDENT SUCCESS CENTRE Director: Kim Millersuccess.uwo.ca | Room 210 UCC

InitiativesƆƆ Increased student participation in annual Career

Conference by 60%

ƆƆ Increased total number of one-on-one career counselling appointments by 17%

ƆƆ Successfully divided group career counselling for international students into two streams: one for undergraduate students and one for graduate students

ƆƆ Trained and supported three MA Counselling Psychology interns

“I immediately found a home at Indigenous Services when I first began University. The staff and the services that they offer are an incredible resource. There are many opportunities to participate in and learn various Indigenous cultural teachings, as well as work and volunteer opportunities. I also found IS to be very supportive during my academic career. The ATO program gave me direction and made choosing my courses and staying organized a breeze. Many thanks to IS.”

Adrean Angles, Master of Public Health Student

Provincial Championships

2

Softball

Men’s Squash

Women’s Lacrosse

Women’s Rowing

Men’s Rowing

Baseball

6

Visits to Recreation Centre872,234


2

Softball

Men’s Squash

Women’s Lacrosse

Women’s Rowing

Men’s Rowing

Baseball

6



2

Softball

Men’s Squash

Women’s Lacrosse

Women’s Rowing

Men’s Rowing

Baseball

6


Career Counselling Services


Learning Skills Services Student Contacts

MAPPIG Wellness Education Centre wec.uwo.ca Heidi ...

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